How To Fix WF_CONT055 - Specify a length

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WF_CONT - Workflow Container, Definition Time and Runtime

• Message number: 055

• Message text: Specify a length

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WF_CONT055 - Specify a length ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WF_CONT055 Specify a length
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs in SAP Workflow when a container element (usually a string or character-type element) is expected to have a defined length, but the length is either not specified or is zero. In other words, the workflow container element requires a length attribute to be set, but it is missing or invalid.
  This typically happens when:
  
  Defining or modifying container elements in a workflow step or task.
  Importing or copying workflows where container element definitions are incomplete.
  Using container elements of type CHAR or STRING without specifying the length.
  
  
  Explanation:
  In SAP Workflow container elements, character-type elements (CHAR, STRING) must have a length defined. For example, a CHAR element must have a length like 10, 20, etc. If the length is not specified, the system cannot allocate memory or handle the element properly, leading to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Container Element Definition:
  
  Go to the workflow builder (transaction SWDD).
  Open the workflow or task where the error occurs.
  Navigate to the container elements.
  Verify that all character-type container elements have a valid length specified.
  
  
  
  Specify Length:
  
  For CHAR elements, specify the length (e.g., 10, 20).
  For STRING elements, length is generally dynamic, but if the system expects a length, ensure the element is defined correctly.
  
  
  
  Adjust Data Types:
  
  If possible, use data elements or types that inherently have length defined.
  Avoid using generic types without length.
  
  
  
  Transport and Import:
  
  If the error occurs after transport/import, check that the container element definitions were transported correctly.
  Re-import or correct the container element definitions.
  
  
  
  Check Custom Code or Enhancements:
  
  If container elements are manipulated via custom code or enhancements, ensure the length is handled properly.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWDD - Workflow Builder
  SWO1 - Business Object Builder (to check object container elements)
  SWI1 - Workflow Log (to analyze workflow errors)
  
  
  
  SAP Notes:
  
  Search SAP Support Portal for notes related to WF_CONT055 for any specific patches or updates.
  
  
  
  Documentation:
  
  SAP Help Portal on Workflow Container Elements
  SAP Workflow Development guides
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  The error WF_CONT055 Specify a length means a container element in the workflow is missing a required length specification. To fix it, ensure all character-type container elements have a valid length defined in the workflow container. This will allow the workflow engine to process the container elements correctly without errors.